Dogs love to have fun, and they can make a game out of nearly any situation that they find themselves. For many canines, toys are a huge part of life. Toys offer stimulation, exercise, and entertainment when human companions can’t be there for personal interactions. Most seem to especially love squeaky toys. But why is that? There are a few reasons that your dog might love squeaky toys above all others.
The 4 Reasons Dogs Like Squeaky Toys
1. They Engage the Prey Drive
Most dogs have a natural prey drive, which is why they tend to chase after cats, squirrels, and other small animals when they get a chance. Toys that squeak seem alive to dogs because they make noise whenever they are interacted with. When a dog bites or pounces on a squeaky toy, the toy sounds as if it were real prey. Therefore, many dogs tend to focus more on their squeaky toys than other toys that may be available to them.
2. They Attract Attention
Another reason many dogs love squeaky toys is that they attract attention. Dogs are smart, and they know that if they start chewing on a squeaky toy and making a bunch of noise, chances are that their human companions will pay them attention in one way or another.
The more attention that someone pays to the dog with the squeaky toy in their mouth, the more that the dog is likely to play with that toy in the future whenever they want attention.
3. They Offer Enhanced Engagement
Squeaky toys are interactive and react to your dog’s actions, which offers enhanced engagement over other toys that do not make noises or move on their own. The enhanced engagement offers dogs a feeling of having a friend around due to the consistent interaction.
4. They Are Simply Fun
Squeaky toys are fun for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and ages. Even older canines enjoy being playful occasionally, and a squeaky toy is the perfect play option for the times when they are feeling frisky. Younger pups might spend all day playing with their squeaky toys. Some dogs might even fight over these toys if there are not enough to go around, since the other toys available just do not seem as exciting.
A Word of Caution
Considering your dog’s behavior and chewing style is a must before giving them access to these kinds of toys. Squeaky toys can be dangerous, especially for aggressive chewers. If dogs break the outside of the toy, the smaller plastic parts of the squeaker become a potential choking hazard for them. It is important to supervise your dog when playing with squeaky toys. Periodically check the state of the toys and replace them if they become worn down or if they break.
Not All Dogs Like Squeaky Toys
Even though squeaky toys are extremely popular among dogs of all breeds, not every dog out there appreciates this type of toy. Dogs that do not like squeaky toys may not have as much of a prey drive, or they are simply interested in other types of toys instead. Just because a dog does not like a squeaky toy does not mean that something is wrong with them or that they are not playful. Offering a variety of different toys to play with should be enough to encourage any pup to get active and playful.
Conclusion
There are tons of different squeaky toys available on the market due to their immense popularity among canines. Some are small and squishy, while others are large and firm. So, if your pup does not seem to like one type of squeaky toy, try another type. Consider their size, behavior, and chewing style to help you choose the right kind of toy. Make sure you constantly monitor them and the state of their toys to ensure they are safe.
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Featured Image Credit: tetiana_u, Shutterstock
